2024 holiday arrangements in “Xinjiang” marginalize Uyghur holidays

By Erkin Uyghur, Jan 3, 2023

In a recent announcement by the Uyghur autonomous regional government, it has been revealed that the Chinese government’s holiday arrangements for 2024 in Xinjiang predominantly focus on China’s national and ethnic holidays, overshadowing Uyghur ethnic holidays.

The official statement disclosed that, out of the 32 days designated for official national, ethnic, and local holidays in 2024, only 4 days have been allocated for Uyghur cultural observances. The government has recognized a single day for Eid Al-Fitr and three days for Eid Al-Adha, while neglecting significant Uyghur festivals such as the Uyghur Doppa Cultural Festival (May 5) and the Nowruz Festival (March 21), both of which have been removed from the official holiday list.While, In addition to the 7-day celebration for China’s October National Day, there are 8 days arranged for the Chinese Spring Festival, 3 days for Ching Ming Festival, 3 days for the Dragon Boat Festival, and 3 days for the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Views: This decision is emblematic of China’s ongoing oppressive policies against Uyghurs, highlighting a deliberate marginalization of Uyghur cultural differences. The emphasis on Chinese national and ethnic holidays not only diminishes the significance of Uyghur cultural celebrations but also underscores the broader pattern of suppressing and eroding the unique identity of the Uyghur people.